New Hampshire District Office Success Stories

New Hampshire District Office Success Stories

Chris Licata, President & CEO of Concord-based Blake’s All Natural Foods was named the New Hampshire Small Business Person of the Year for 2014. This notable award, given by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) annually, recognizes top small business leaders in each of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and Guam.

Blake’s All Natural Foods is a fourth generation family company best known for its made from scratch, all natural and organic comfort food classics as well as its commitment to bringing convenient and healthy dinner options to families across the U.S. Chris Licata joined the family business in 2006 and under his direction, Blake’s has struck the balance of remaining true to the core values that have guided the brand for decades while excelling in new sales channels. Since joining the company in 2006, Blake’s has gone from a New England-only brand to national recognition, selling products to more than 6,000 retailers in 46 states and growing sales 6-fold in just 8 years.

“I feel as though our greatest accomplishment is continuing the legacy of a fourth generation family business,” said Licata. “We’ve been able to enjoy significant growth while remaining true to our roots and our commitment to bring convenient and nutritious natural and organic meals to our customers nationwide. It is a true honor to be recognized by the SBA as New Hampshire’s Small Business Person of the Year.”

The Blake’s family has been part of the Concord community since 1929 when the Blake’s farm first opened its doors. Over the years, Blake’s has evolved from a turkey farm that produced the finest, fresh-dressed turkeys in the area to a potpie business that began back in 1970.

“Your hard work, innovative ideas, and dedication to your community have helped you succeed. The SBA is pleased to recognize your achievements and your role in driving our nation’s economic growth,” said SBA Assistant Administrator Fred Baldassaro about this year’s winners.

Blake’s All Natural Foods is a fourth generation family company located in Concord, New Hampshire. All Blake’s meals are made completely from scratch in small batches using the finest organic and natural ingredients. Blake’s All Natural Foods include organic and gluten-free options, such as their Gluten-Free Chicken Pot Pie. Other offerings include their classic Chicken Pot Pie, Old Fashioned Mac & Cheese, Shepherd’s Pie, and Macaroni & Beef. Their meals are available in over 6,000 stores nationwide. Blake’s has grown exponentially since they started in 1929 yet they still operate from the same principle: to provide consumers with convenient and healthy made-from-scratch meals, just like mom used to make.